Particle.news

Michael '5000' Watts Hospitalized in Houston as Family Requests Prayers

The Swishahouse founder shaped Houston’s chopped-and-screwed sound, helping launch artists such as Slim Thug, Paul Wall, and Mike Jones.

Overview

  • Watts was hospitalized after experiencing serious health issues over the past week, according to a statement from his family.
  • The family asked supporters to pray for him and said hospital visits should be limited unless approved by them, with further updates to come.
  • No details about his specific condition or treatment timeline have been released by hospital officials.
  • Watts built his reputation from late-1980s mixtapes in Houston’s Homestead neighborhood and later helped popularize the chopped-and-screwed style pioneered by DJ Screw.
  • He co-founded Swishahouse in 1997, elevated Houston talent including Slim Thug, Paul Wall, and Mike Jones, and has been a familiar presence on 97.9 The Box as fans and peers share messages of support.